The Best Free Agent Signing From 2021?
Player Name
Hunter Renfroe is hitting better than Kris Bryant, and he’s doing it at a fraction of the price. After a season like this, Renfroe may just be the best MLB signing from the 2021 offseason.
By Zach Smith
Nobody expected this kind of production from Hunter Renfroe when the Boston Red Sox signed him in December. So far, the Mississippi State product is having the best season of his career.
Renfroe made his debut for the San Diego Padres on September 21, 2016 after he powered through the minors. He batted .371 in 11 games.
He made the Padres opening day roster the following year and made 117 starts for them in right field. Renfroe ended the season with a .231 batting average with 26 home runs.
Renfroe took on a bigger role in 2018 once Will Myers got hurt, and he ended up leading the Padres in home runs that season with 26.
In a shortened 2020 season, Renfroe hit a miserable .156 and had only 8 home runs. He was designated for assignment in November of 2020, and soon signed a 1 year/$3.1 million deal with the Red Sox.
Renfroe has completely filled the Red Sox needs in right field, and he is posting career highs across the board. So far, he’s hit 27 home runs with 85 RBI to go along with a .263 batting average.
He was a bit shaky early on in the season, but Renfroe heated up at the right time. The right fielder is batting .301 with 11 home runs over his past 30 games as the Red Sox battle for a playoff spot.
Not only has he turned into a consistent hitter, Renfroe has frequently flexed his insane arm strength. He currently leads the MLB in outfield assists with 16.
Hunter Renfroe should be in contention for a Gold Glove and he may even surpass 30 home runs and 90 RBIs. He’s having an All-Star season for just $3.1 million.
With this production at that price, Renfroe is looking like one of the best free agents signings of the season.
The Red Sox currently own the second AL Wild Card spot and they’ll need Renfroe to stay hot if they want to make it to October.